Introduction

7.1 This chapter provides an overview of the main principles and procedures concerning the development of government legislation (Acts of Parliament and regulations—that is, primary and secondary legislation) at the executive level. The chapter covers:

the Speech from the Throne and the Prime Minister’s statement;

the purpose, development, and monitoring of the government legislation programme;

the role of the Legislation Coordinator in the Cabinet Office;

the role of the Law Commission and its work programme;

the process for the development and approval of government legislation;

the process for making changes to policy after a bill has been introduced (including the approval process for Supplementary Order Papers);

the role of Ministers in the development and approval of bills, including bills initiated by parties other than the government (local bills, private bills, and members’ bills);

the principles and procedures for the development of regulations, and the 28-day rule;

the role of Ministers in relation to the House of Representatives and select committees;

7.2 Enquiries about the legislation programme may be directed to the Legislation Coordinator in the Cabinet Office (see paragraph 7.15) or to the Parliamentary Counsel Office. Enquiries about legislation generally may be directed to the Parliamentary Counsel Office. Enquiries about papers for consideration by the Cabinet Legislation Committee should be directed to the secretary of that committee (in the Cabinet Office).